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Starbucks is known for their handcrafted drinks. On May 9, Starbucks consumers began to see a price increase on refreshers.

   Recent rumors on the news have shaken pre-teens and soccer mom’s worlds to the core. “Help! Starbucks is raising their prices! What do we do?” Everyone and their mother seemingly lost their minds when the news of the upcharge hit the internet.  According to the news, Starbucks would begin charging customers if they wanted less ice or no water, beginning May 9, 2023. However, it seems the rumor stayed just that, as the price increase never happened.

   “I don’t think it’s right for Starbucks to charge [an extra dollar] when they haven’t been charging for it in the past. It’s really just a greedy way for them to make more money when they aren’t paying their workers a substantial wage,” Jillian Neal (12) said.

   The rumors began on TikTok and have since spread. Starbucks workers on the app would chime in, neither confirming or denying the change. TikTok users were left puzzled as to whether or not this rumor was true. It turns out the actual price increase only affects refresher orders with no water.

   “There will be an additional cost of $1 for Starbucks Refreshers Beverages customized with no water, as this customization requires extra ingredients,” the company said in a statement regarding the controversy. 

   Without water, the drink is not diluted and costs more to make. Although this makes sense, consumers are still upset because the company already charges enough.

   “I felt, personally, that I was being cheated. I don’t think you should be charged extra because it’s already pretty expensive for one drink,” Neal said.